Gutter cover

ABSTRACT

A gutter cover is adapted for covering an opening of a generally U-shaped eaves gutter used for catching and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof. The gutter cover includes an elongated cover panel having a longitudinal upstream section adapted for residing proximate a top rear edge of the gutter adjacent an eaves of the roof, and a longitudinal downstream section located away from the roof eaves. The downstream section is adapted for engaging an outwardly-spaced leading edge of the gutter. The cover panel defines a first row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings adapted for receiving rainwater runoff from the roof into the gutter. A longitudinal weir ridge is formed downstream of the first row of debris filter openings, and is adapted for slowing and flattening a downstream flow of rainwater runoff bypassing the first row of debris filter openings. The cover panel further defines a second row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings downstream of the weir ridge. The second row of openings is adapted to further receive rainwater runoff from the roof into the gutter.

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a gutter cover adapted for use with a conventional, K-style eaves gutter designed for collecting and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof. The invention filters the rainwater, and effectively sheds debris to avoid clogging the gutter and downspouts.

Clogged gutters and heavy downpours can leave homeowners with serious water damage to both their landscaping and foundation. As rain-filled gutters overflow, water cascades onto the ground around a home's foundation, which can cause soil erosion and lead to basement flooding. Other resulting problems include fascia and rafter/roof edge rot, and damage to sheet rock, ceilings, walls, and insulation. Debris-filled gutters also retain water after a rainstorm creating a breeding ground for pests such as carpenter ants and mosquitoes.

While these problems are significant, they can be readily mitigated and even avoided altogether with an effective debris deflection/rainwater collection system. The system of the present invention utilizes the existing eaves gutter, and a convenient gutter cover which requires no special tools or equipment to install. The present gutter cover is generally inconspicuous, and demands little attention and maintenance after installation. The invention may be formed in a variety of colors, does not damage the roof or roof shingles, and can be removed and replaced if necessary. The invention offers a low cost, long term solution to gutter maintenance, and the problems resulting from clogged and ineffective gutters.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Therefore, it is an object of the invention to eliminate gutter failure resulting from clogs.

It is another object of the invention to provide a low cost solution to effective gutter maintenance.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which can be easily installed by the homeowner with no special tools or equipment.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which effective shed debris.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which promotes rainwater passage into the gutter.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which can divert up to 6″ (15.24 cm) of rainfall per hour.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which reduce or substantially eliminates moisture build up behind siding and fascia board caused by overflowing gutters.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which is conveniently retrofitted on existing gutters.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which utilizes the scientific principle of liquid adhesion to channel rainwater.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which shields the outside face of the gutter to prevent unsightly stains caused by dripping rainwater and debris.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which does not typically require roof shingles along the roof edge to be trimmed back.

It is another object of the invention to provide a gutter cover which may be installed or replaced in sections.

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in the preferred embodiments disclosed below by providing a gutter cover adapted for covering an opening of a generally U-shaped eaves gutter used for catching and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof. The gutter cover includes an elongated cover panel having a longitudinal upstream section adapted for residing proximate a top rear edge of the gutter adjacent an eaves of the roof, and a longitudinal downstream section located away from the roof eaves. The downstream section is adapted for engaging an outwardly-spaced leading edge of the gutter. The cover panel defines a first row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings adapted for receiving rainwater runoff from the roof into the gutter. A longitudinal weir ridge is formed downstream of the first row of debris filter openings, and is adapted for slowing and flattening a downstream flow of rainwater runoff bypassing the first row of debris filter openings. The cover panel further defines a second row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings downstream of the weir ridge. The second row of openings is adapted to further receive rainwater runoff from the roof into the gutter.

According to another preferred embodiment, the cover panel further includes a rounded debris-shedding nose adjacent the downstream section. The rounded nose cooperates with the downstream section to form a longitudinal rainwater collection channel for receiving rainwater runoff flowing over the nose and adhering to a surface of the cover panel. The cover panel further defines a third row of debris filter openings formed within the channel for receiving rainwater runoff into the gutter.

According to another preferred embodiment, the debris filter openings of the third row comprise respective channel slots. Each slot defines a width dimension greater than a width dimension of each debris filter opening of the first and second rows.

According to another preferred embodiment, each of the channel slots is greater than 50% wider than each of the debris filter openings of the first and second rows.

According to another preferred embodiment, a second longitudinal weir ridge is formed between the second row of debris filter openings and the third row of debris filter openings.

According to another preferred embodiment, the second longitudinal weir ridge is located upstream of the rounded nose.

According to another preferred embodiment, a mounting flange cooperates with the downstream section of the cover panel to form a longitudinal groove adapted for receiving the leading edge of the gutter.

According to another preferred embodiment, the downstream section of said cover panel further comprises an overhanging gutter shield adapted for shielding an outside face of the gutter against rainwater runoff bypassing the first and second rows of debris filter openings.

According to another preferred embodiment, the upstream section of the cover panel defines an angled shingle tab adapted for residing beneath a last course of roof shingles.

According to another preferred embodiment, each of the debris filter openings of the first and second rows comprises a laterally-bridged slot.

According to another preferred embodiment, the debris filter openings of the first and second rows have a uniform width, and are uniformly spaced-apart within each row.

According to another preferred embodiment, the first and second rows of debris filtering openings are staggered in an alternating arrangement, such that the debris filtering openings of the first row align in downstream registration with respective landings formed between debris filtering openings of the second row.

In yet another embodiment, the invention is the combination of a generally U-shaped eaves gutter used for catching and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof, and the present gutter cover which extends laterally across an opening of the gutter.

In yet another embodiment, the invention is a method for catching and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof. The method includes the step of positioning the present gutter cover over the opening of a generally U-shaped eaves gutter used for catching and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some of the objects of the invention have been set forth above. Other objects and advantages of the invention will appear as the description proceeds when taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is fragmentary perspective view of a gutter cover according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the gutter cover installed on a conventional, generally U-shaped eaves gutter;

FIG. 3 is a view demonstrating installation of the gutter cover at the opening of the eaves gutter; and

FIG. 4 is a side view of the gutter cover installed on the eaves gutter and demonstrating its use in a debris shedding/rainwater collection system.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT AND BEST MODE

Referring now specifically to the drawings, a gutter cover according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1, and shown generally at reference numeral 10. The gutter cover 10 is designed for covering the opening of a conventional, generally U-shaped eaves gutter 11 (See FIG. 2) used for collecting and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof “R”. The gutter cover 10 fits both 5 and 6-inch gutters, and is quickly and conveniently installed without the use of special tools or equipment. Preferably, the gutter cover 10 is formed of a PVC plastic or lightweight aluminum in easy to handle 4-ft lengths, and up to 10-ft sections for professional installers.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the gutter cover 10 comprises an elongated cover panel 12 having a longitudinal upstream section 14 which resides proximate a top rear edge of the gutter 11 adjacent an eaves “E” of the roof “R”, and an opposing longitudinal downstream section 15. The upstream section 14 defines a slightly angled shingle tab 16 adapted to fit beneath a lowermost course of roof shingles “S”, as demonstrated in FIG. 3, such that rainwater and debris runs from the roof “R” directly to the gutter cover 10 before entering the gutter 11. The downstream section 15 of the cover panel 12 cooperates with an adjacent longitudinal mounting flange 18 to form a narrow groove 19 designed to securely receive an inwardly-projecting tongue 21 of the gutter 11, as best shown in FIG. 2. The downstream section 15 further defines an overhanging gutter shield 22 which extends outwardly at downward angle to the leading edge of the gutter 11.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, a first row of longitudinally-spaced, laterally-bridged slots 30 are formed downstream of the shingle tab 16 a distance sufficient to avoid being covered by the roof shingles “S”. The bridged slots 30 define respective debris filter openings designed to capture and receive rainwater runoff from the roof “R” into the gutter 11, while separating debris “D” such as leaves, pine needles, twigs, acorns, and the like. The bridged slots 30 are separated by respective landings 32 integrally formed with the cover panel 12. Rainwater runoff bypassing the first row of slots 30 engages a first longitudinal weir ridge 34. The weir ridge 34 operates to slow and flatten downstream water flow. The peak 34A of the weir ridge 34 is preferably about ¼ to ⅜-inch from the flat plane 36 of the cover panel 12.

Rainwater flows downstream from the weir ridge 34 to a second row of longitudinally-spaced, laterally-bridged slots 40. The bridged slots 30 and 40 of the first and second rows have a uniform width, and are uniformly spaced-apart within each row. To promote more effective rainwater collection and filtering, the first and second rows are staggered in an alternating arrangement, such that the bridged slots 30 of the first row align in downstream registration with respective landings 42 formed between the bridged slots 40 of the second row. In this arrangement, the bridged slots 30, 40 of the first and second rows extend (collectively) in a continuous uninterrupted line from one end of the cover panel 12 to the other.

Any rainwater bypassing the first and second rows of bridged slots 30, 40 engages a second longitudinal weir ridge 44 operating, as previously described, to slow and flatten further downstream water flow. The peak 44A of the weir ridge 44 is also about ¼ to ⅜-inch from the flat plane 46 of the cover panel 12.

From the second weir ridge 44, the rainwater passes over a rounded debris-shedding nose 47, and through its inherent surface adhesion enters a longitudinal collection channel 48 formed between the nose 47 and the downstream section 15 of the cover panel 12. A third row of debris-filtering slots 50 are formed within the channel 48 for capturing and receiving rainwater, and small debris not shed over the nose 47. The rounded nose 47 is setback from the downstream section 15 of the cover panel 12 to promote the flow of rainwater into the collection channel 48 and through the channel slots 50. The radius of the nose is between 3/16 and 5/16 inches. Each of the channel slots 50 has a width dimension which is substantially greater than the width of each of the bridged slots 30, 40 of the first and second rows. According to one embodiment, the channel slots 50 are at least 50% wider than the bridged slots 30, 40. The channel slots 50 have a uniform width, and are uniformly spaced to align in downstream registration with the landings 42 formed between the bridged slots 40 of the second row. The width of each channel slot 50 is preferably equal to or greater than the width of the corresponding upstream landing 42.

Should any rainwater escape the first, second, and third rows of debris filter openings 30, 40, and 50, the outwardly projecting gutter shield 22 will direct this rainwater away from the outside face of the gutter 11 and prevent unsightly staining commonly known as “tiger striping.”

A gutter cover is described above. Various details of the invention may be changed without departing from its scope. Furthermore, the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention and best mode for practicing the invention are provided for the purpose of illustration only and not for the purpose of limitation-the invention being defined by the claims. 

1. A gutter cover adapted for covering an opening of a generally U-shaped eaves gutter used for catching and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof, said gutter cover comprising: an elongated cover panel having a longitudinal upstream section adapted for residing proximate a top rear edge of the gutter adjacent an eaves of the roof, and a longitudinal downstream section located away from the roof eaves, and adapted for engaging an outwardly-spaced leading edge of the gutter; said cover panel defining a first row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings adapted for receiving rainwater runoff from the roof into the gutter; a longitudinal weir ridge downstream of said first row of debris filter openings, and adapted for slowing and flattening a downstream flow of rainwater runoff bypassing said first row of debris filter openings; and said cover panel further defining a second row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings downstream of said weir ridge, and adapted for receiving rainwater runoff from the roof into the gutter.
 2. A gutter cover according to claim 1, wherein said cover panel further comprises: (a) a rounded nose adjacent said downstream section and cooperating with said downstream section to form a longitudinal rainwater collection channel for receiving rainwater runoff flowing over said nose and adhering to a surface of said cover panel; and (b) said cover panel further defining a third row of debris filter openings formed within said channel for receiving rainwater runoff into the gutter.
 3. A gutter cover according to claim 2, wherein the debris filter openings of said third row comprise respective channel slots, each slot defining a width dimension greater than a width dimension of each debris filter opening of said first and second rows.
 4. A gutter cover according to claim 3, wherein each of said channel slots is greater than 50% wider than each of the debris filter openings of said first and second rows.
 5. A gutter cover according to claim 2, and comprising a second longitudinal weir ridge located between said second row of debris filter openings and said third row of debris filter openings.
 6. A gutter cover according to claim 5, wherein said second longitudinal weir ridge is located upstream of said rounded nose.
 7. A gutter cover according to claim 1, and comprising a mounting flange cooperating with the downstream section of said cover panel to form a longitudinal groove adapted for receiving the leading edge of the gutter.
 8. A gutter cover according to claim 7, wherein the downstream section of said cover panel defines an overhanging gutter shield adapted for shielding an outside face of the gutter against rainwater runoff bypassing said first and second rows of debris filter openings.
 9. A gutter cover according to claim 1, wherein the upstream section of said cover panel comprises an angled shingle tab adapted for residing beneath a last course of roof shingles.
 10. A gutter cover according to claim 1, wherein each of the debris filter openings of said first and second rows comprises a laterally-bridged slot.
 11. A gutter cover according to claim 1, wherein the debris filter openings of said first and second rows have a uniform width, and are uniformly spaced-apart within each row.
 12. A gutter cover according to claim 11, wherein said first and second rows of debris filtering openings are staggered in an alternating arrangement, such that the debris filtering openings of the first row align in downstream registration with respective landings formed between debris filtering openings of said second row.
 13. In combination with a generally U-shaped eaves gutter used for catching and distributing rainwater runoff from a pitched roof, a gutter cover extending laterally across an opening of said gutter, said gutter cover comprising: an elongated cover panel having a longitudinal upstream section residing proximate a top rear edge of said gutter adjacent an eaves of the roof, and a longitudinal downstream section located away from the roof eaves, and engaging an outwardly-spaced leading edge of said gutter; said cover panel defining a first row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings adapted for receiving rainwater runoff from the roof into said gutter; a longitudinal weir ridge downstream of said first row of debris filter openings, and adapted for slowing and flattening a downstream flow of rainwater runoff bypassing said first row of debris filter openings; and said cover panel further defining a second row of longitudinally-spaced debris filter openings downstream of said weir ridge, and adapted for receiving rainwater runoff from the roof into said gutter.
 14. A combination according to claim 13, wherein said cover panel further comprises: (a) a rounded nose adjacent said downstream section and cooperating with said downstream section to form a longitudinal rainwater collection channel for receiving rainwater runoff flowing over said nose and adhering to a surface of said cover panel; and (b) said cover panel defining a third row of debris filter openings formed within said channel for receiving rainwater runoff into said gutter.
 15. A combination according to claim 14, wherein the debris filter openings of said third row comprise respective channel slots, each slot defining a width dimension greater than a width dimension of each debris filter opening of said first and second rows.
 16. A combination according to claim 15, and comprising a second longitudinal weir ridge located between said second row of debris filter openings and said third row of debris filter openings.
 17. A combination according to claim 13, and comprising a mounting flange cooperating with the downstream section of said cover panel to form a longitudinal groove adapted for receiving the leading edge of said gutter.
 18. A combination according to claim 17, wherein the downstream section of said cover panel defines an overhanging gutter shield adapted for shielding an outside face of said gutter against rainwater runoff bypassing said first and second rows of debris filter openings.
 19. A combination according to claim 13, wherein the debris filter openings of said first and second rows have a uniform width, and are uniformly spaced-apart within each row.
 20. A combination according to claim 19, wherein said first and second rows of debris filtering openings are staggered in an alternating arrangement, such that the debris filtering openings of the first row align in downstream registration with respective landings formed between debris filtering openings of said second row. 